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The contact lens has joined other products as a personal care item which has become more comfortable and convenient than before. They offer the freedom from glasses for most people, most age groups and for almost any situation. When cared for properly, contact lenses can provide a healthy and comfortable vision.

There are a variety of contact lenses that are available today. So, how do you choose with so many options?

Types of Lenses:

Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are made of soft polymer-plastic material combined with a percentage of water. Water allows oxygen to pass through the contact lens material and increases comfort.

With a ‘daily’ wear disposable schedule, a brand new pair of lenses is used each day.

If you are an allergy sufferer, daily disposables are the contact lenses for you.

However, some lenses may be used ‘frequently’ for the prescribed wearing period. These require to be removed every night, cleaned and placed in their lens case with its prescribed lens solution and thrown away after its given period for example monthly (30 days) or quarterly (3 months). Care of quarterly lenses is usually the same as a traditional yearly soft contact lens as some patients have difficulty to continue their wear after three months use due to deposits and lack of oxygen.

Advantage of disposables: Being able to have a fresh pair of soft contact lenses means not having to clean your contact lenses on a regular basis and hence less chance of infection, reduction of dry eye and irritation related to contact solutions. This lens helps people whose eyes naturally produce more protein which leaves deposits on the contact lenses

Traditional re usable soft lenses are usually soft contact lenses changed on an annual or a yearly basis. Some use them on a quarterly basis. The higher cost of frequent replacement lenses is usually the motivating factor to opt for this type. Most toric lenses for astigmatism, bifocals or multifocal lenses to help both near and far vision fit in this category. This category needs a

These are usually soft lenses which range from one to six nights or up to 30 days continuous wear. They are made of flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. It is important for the eyes to have a rest without lenses for at least one night following each scheduled removal.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

These are not as comfortable initially as soft contacts and it may take a few weeks to get used to wearing RGPs, compared to several days for soft contacts. In today’s practice, these are reserved for some specific corneal conditions.

Cosmetic Coloured Lenses

Colour contact lenses can be used to either enhance your natural eye colour or even change the eye colour altogether. In addition, special designs can be placed on the lens for special occasions and fun! Specialized lenses are also used to help patients with disfigured or scarred eyes. These are usually soft lenses.

Dr Shroff’s guide for buying your first contact lens:

Your contact lens power may not match your spectacle power; hence one should not buy contact lenses based just on their spectacle powers, as these may not be the correct lenses for you. Which power? What size? This is based on your eye examination.

When you try contact lenses for the first time you will need to ensure that you have an eye test and a full consultation first with an ophthalmologist or a contact lens specialist. This eye examination should include an Computerized mapping (topography) to check size and curvature of the cornea and microscopic corneal assessment to rule out signs of allergies, infection, dry eye, inflammation or scarring related to past contact lens wear, checking not only vision (visual acuity) but also how well your tears work in lubricating your eyes.

There should be an in-depth discussion for your contact lens requirements, and then recommendations of the most suitable contact lenses for you. Some trial contact lenses may be fitted for a short while for you to become accustomed to them. These lenses are assessed to determine how well they fit and how well you can see.

Getting used to your lenses:

The next step is intended to give you the confidence to insert and remove the contact lenses from the eyes yourself, and you should be given time to practice this with the contact lens specialist. You should also learn about cleaning the contact lenses (if applicable), and all of the ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ of wearing contact lenses. Only when the specialist is satisfied that you are comfortable with the trial lenses and all its instructions, only then your lens order should be placed.

An important test- Topography Mapping Test for Corneal Curvature

Many contact lens patients show corneal damage, allergies and disease and hence these conditions should be ruled out. At Shroff Eye, Mumbai, this test is done using a unique computerised mapping with the Wavelight Topolyser which measures over 25,000 points on the cornea to diagnoses corneal disease and determine optimal contact lens parameters. This test must be performed annually since these values can change due to aging, contact lens over-wear, injury, and trauma. (See image pic)

SHROFF EYE OPENERS®

Do’s and Don’ts with Contact Lenses

Do’s

Clean contact lenses properly as per the prescribed regimen, every day.

Dust or debris left on them may cause temporary irritation

Thoroughly rinse the lenses before re-inserting them

Even if you are not using the contact lenses, they should be cleaned and put back in the contact lens case every day

Routine checks at the intervals recommended by your Contact Lens Specialist are essential to long term success with contact lenses and healthy eyes

Regular replacement of lenses and thorough attention to cleaning is essential

Always keep your nails short so that you do not injure your eyes while inserting and removing lenses

Put in your contact lens first and then wear eye makeup, so that you do not get any eye makeup on the lens while inserting them

Take your lenses off before removing make-up and avoid using greasy cleansers

It is possible for contact lenses to slip out of place. If this happens, simply close your eye and gently massage it back into position

If you are a new user of contact lenses, gradually increase the length of time you wear the new contact lenses, starting with a few hours a day

Don’ts

Avoid using lenses if you have dry eyes, as they will aggravate the dryness further

Avoid using lenses if you suffer from eye allergies or repeated eye infections

Avoid or limit the use of lenses when working on the computer (eg. IT industry) as this may decrease the life span of comfortable lens wear

Avoid using coloured contact lenses on a daily basis as it may induce contact lens intolerance faster

Common questions:

Q. At what age can you start wearing contact lenses? My daughter is only 12 and wants to wear contacts; is there a specific age for contact wearers?

There are no fixed lower age limits for contact lens use. The decisive factor with children is how responsible the patient and the parent are. An enthused 12-year-old could well become a successful contact lens wearer. However, do keep in mind, that there will probably be more frequent changes in the powers in patients younger than 18 years of age. Therefore, regular follow-up visits to the specialist who fits the contact lenses are important.

The risk of wearing hard lenses in a pool is that they may float out if your eyes get wet. With soft lenses, impurities in the water might be absorbed, which could cause infection, so if you need to see underwater, get goggles.

Did You Know?

Some report that contact lenses caused floaters or flashes to become more frequent and prominent. This is not true. You may however become more aware of them because of visual improvement. If you have an increase or change in your floaters and flashes, especially suddenly, this may be a sign of a more serious problem within the eye – having nothing to do with the contacts. You should have a dilated eye exam with your ophthalmologist to rule out other issues like retinal problems.

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the one of the most common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50 years. Its prevalence increases with age. It is caused by the degeneration of the Macula, the central and most sensitive part of the retina at the back of the eyes.

The macula provides the sharp, central vision we need for reading, driving, and seeing fine detail. Macular degeneration refers to the breakdown of the macula. This disorder results in the loss of central vision only. Degeneration results from the partial breakdown of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) that is the insulating layer between the Retina and the Choroids and acts as a selective filter to determine what nutrients reach the retina.
Elaborating on the symptoms of this disease, Dr Rahul Shroff, vitreo-retinal surgeon, Shroff Eye Hospital, Mumbai says “Some people with macular degeneration notice that straight lines such as electricity poles, the sides of buildings or streets, appear wavy.
Macular degeneration cannot be reversed. Its impact, however, can be reduced. Timely laser surgery and medications can be used to treat certain types of macular degeneration.”

Newer Treatments for ARMD

Anti-VEGF drugs block the trouble-causing VEGF, reducing the growth of abnormal blood vessels and slowing their leakage. THE RECENT DEVELOPMENT OF ANTI-VEGF MEDICATIONS HAVE BECOME AN EXCITING ADVANCE IN THE TREATMENT OF WET AMD. Bevacizumab (Avastin) and Ranibizumab (Lucentis) are two very useful drugs. Most patients will retain the vision they have and some will regain some of the lost vision after these treatments. These procedures may preserve more sight overall, though they are not cures that restore vision to normal. Despite advanced medical treatment, most people with macular degeneration still experience some vision loss. There should be no delay in taking the treatment advised by the retinal surgeon. Many older people develop macular degeneration as part of the body’s natural aging process. Exactly why it develops is not known, and no treatment has been uniformly effective. All the above treatments for ARMD are offered at Shroff Eye, Mumbai.

We will be happy to assist you with any further information that you may need. Assuring you of our best services always.

Shroff Eye Hospital is India’s First Eye Hospital that is accreditied by Joint Commission International (International Division of JCAHO, USA) for excellence in patient care and health care delivery. Shroff Eye is also India’s first and only Wavelight Concerto 500 Hz LASIK center- The Worlds Safest and Fastest LASIK.

Disclaimer: All the contents of this Article is provided “As Is”. That means there is no warranty of any kind. Indianhealthjournal makes no claim that the Article’s information is appropriate in any jurisdiction or that the products described in the Article will be available for purchase in all jurisdiction.

“Just like your Blood Pressure is checked regularly, the Intra Ocular Pressure or IOP should be checked for every person undergoing an eye examination to screen for an eye condition called ‘Glaucoma’ since it can occur in the absence of any symptoms.

Further, Persons With Family History of Glaucoma can undergo a sensitive test- SWAP Test which detects changes in eye when glaucoma is suspected well before the optic nerve shows the effects of Glaucoma”, says Dr. Anand Shroff, Glaucoma Specialist at Shroff Eye Hospital

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world, especially for older people. However, visual loss is preventable or can be stabilized with early diagnosis and treatment.

This disease is called the ‘Thief of Sight’ because it is painless, symptom less and irreversible. Therefore, persons with glaucoma are usually unaware of it until much loss of vision, especially the peripheral vision has occurred. In fact, half of those suffering damage from glaucoma do not know it!! Glaucoma damages the optic nerve because of high pressure within the eye, leading to defects in the field of vision. If the entire optic nerve is damaged, it results in irreversible blindness. Early detection and regular treatment are the keys to preventing optic nerve damage and blindness from glaucoma.

There are few conditions related to this disease that tend to put some people at greater risk. This may apply to you if:

a) Someone in your family has a history of glaucoma, though not always necessary that it could be hereditary.

b) If you are over 40 {could be earlier if you have a family member suffering from glaucoma} and have not had your eyes examined regularly by an ophthalmologist, not an optician.

c) Near-sightedness {myopia}

d) Any injury to your eyes

e) Secondary to other ocular conditions (cataract, inflammations in the eye, tumours etc.}

f) Long term medication {cortisone}. This holds for those who use eye drops injudiciously, particularly Pyrimon and other steroids, and repeat their prescription for red eye treatment with their chemists without consulting doctors. It is therefore, very important that youngsters who have contact lens-induced and other allergies, and those who repeatedly suffer from red eyes, to be very careful with their use of eye drops. They must visit the ophthalmologist urgently.

g) Glaucoma is detected by regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

You require annual examinations if you are at risk for glaucoma. Those with glaucoma need to have regular visual field tests done to monitor the progress of the disease. ‘Suspect’ cases with a family history of glaucoma may be required to additionally undergo a highly sensitive form of visual field analysis called short wavelength automated perimetry [SWAP], which detects changes in your eye well before the optic nerve shows the effects of glaucoma. It is also useful to monitor the progress of the condition.

The main treatment for glaucoma aims at reducing the pressure in your eye. Damage already caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. Eye drops, tablets, lasers and surgical operations are used to prevent or slow further damage from occurring. There are different types of glaucoma, but with any type of glaucoma periodic examinations are very important to prevent loss of vision. Because glaucoma can irreversibly worsen without your being aware of it, your treatment may need to be changed from time to time during the periodic examination.

If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, the best treatment for you should be decided after a thorough examination and discussion with a glaucoma specialist.

Issued in public interest by Shroff Eye Hospital, Mumbai, India

India’s first LASIK Centre to launch the 500 Hz Wavelight Concerto laser India’s first Eye Hospital to be awarded the JCI- Joint Commission International certification (USA), the Gold standard of Healthcare Internationally.

The dry air in the cabins of modern jets causes rapid evaporation of tears from the eyes surface. Without sufficient moisture the cornea, which is the transparent “watch glass” that lies over the iris (coloured part of the eye) can be deprived of oxygen and cause your eyes to become irritated.

There are many environmental reasons, which dehydrate the eyes’ tear film and cause dry eye symptoms. While most people think that this only occurs outdoor due to intense sunlight, many indoor conditions can be a much greater problem because of re-circulated air, artificial lighting, cleaning products, etc.

Symptoms of dry eye

Redness

Scratchy feeling in the eyes

Vision can get blurred

What makes symptoms worse?

Reading on the plane adds to the problem because you tend to blink less frequently when you read, leading to more evaporation of moisture from the eyes.

Wearing your contact lenses during a long flight can result in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.

This problem can occur with all types of contact lenses: hard, soft, gas permeable, or extended-wear due to less oxygen reaching the cornea. Dry air in the cabin evaporates the water from the contact lenses and contributes to the problem. Hence, if you are a contact lens wearer, it is better to wear spectacles in flight.

How can you avoid problems?

Put artificial tears or lubricating eye drops in your eyes during a flight as often as you feel they are necessary.

Airline personnel who wear contacts and have discomfort should always use these drops routinely.

It may be wiser to remove the contacts and wear your eyeglasses when flying.

OTHER EYE CARE TIPS

Carry a spare pair of spectacles especially if you have high numbers.

Carrying your spectacle prescription may also be handy.

Most airports are equipped reading glasses for those above forty; also available are contact lens cases and solutions.

Speak to your eye doctor to prescribe you a simple and safe antibiotic eye drop in case of red eyes due to infection.

Avoid putting spectacles in pockets, as is commonly a habit, carry a pouch instead for safekeeping.

If you are escaping the summer heat and heading towards a snowy region, there is extra care you have to take as far as eyes go. Snow can blind you! So use good ultra violet protected eyewear.

OTHER HEALTH TIPS WHILE TRAVELLING

Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, beverages. A glass of water every hour is good.

Put a pillow behind the small of your back to avoid backaches.

Take an occasional stroll around the cabin. This is especially for those who are overweight or have high-risk conditions such as high blood pressure. By moving around you will decrease the risk of deep venous thrombosis, which in simple terms is blood clotting in the lower limbs.

Bring a sweater or jacket – airplane cabins are usually cool.

Use lip-balm, moisturiser and eye-drops/contact lens lubricant to combat the effects of cabin dryness.

The relatively low air pressure in your aircraft can cause discomfort. If your ears bother you during takeoff and landing, try yawning, chewing gum or doing this: pinch your nostrils shut, inhale, close your mouth and try gently to blow your nose. Children should be encouraged to drink or suck on sweets especially during take- offs and landings.

If you have a cold, the dry air will make your sinuses feel worse. If you are taking medications, carry them with you in the cabin. See your physician to rule out infection. Also, your fellow passengers will appreciate it because everyone is more susceptible to catching a cold in dry air than in moist due to the effect.

Always wash your hands as soon as possible after contacting surfaces in the public domain such as handrails, counter tops and doorknobs.

Use a hand sanitizer after washing and when soap and water are not readily available.

Comprehensive travel insurance is one of the best investments you can make when planning a vacation

JET LAG

In spite of your zealous efforts of doing and packing everything, having done your hair, nails and just about everything before taking off on your vacation, you still look “black-eyed” with deep black rings under your eyes and puffy lids!! Blame it on ‘jet lag’! Your regular internal clock is rather topsy-turvy at the moment. Disrupted eating pattern, bowel pattern and irregular and interrupted sleep pattern is why we get jet lag.

Arrange in-flight meals to reflect the time-of-day at your destination.

Set your watch to your destination time as you take off. Then start programming your body to it.

Allow a day for each time zone to get over the jet lag.

Medical option?

There is a drug called ‘Melatonin’ for jet lag problems. It is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It helps to control the body’s sleep/wake cycle. By resetting the body’s internal clock, melatonin can treat the underlying cause of all jet lag problems, which is the disruption of the natural sleep/wake cycle. However, your physician should advise it.

Issued in public interest by Shroff Eye Hospital, Mumbai, India

India’s first Eye Hospital to be accredited by JCI- Joint Commission International (USA) for excellence in patient care and healthcare delivery.

Eyesight is one of the most precious gifts that nature has given to mankind. It’s only because of the eyes; one can enjoy the beauty of this world. It’s impossible to imagine life without sight. Though a very small part of body, eye is one of the most complex human organs. It has various parts, all of which are responsible for normal vision. Smallest structural or functional alteration in the functioning of an eye can cause tremendous visual disturbances.

Refractive error or need of glasses is one of the most common eye problems. It can start at any age. This is due to alteration in length, shape & / or capacity of eyes. There are various types of refractive errors which can be checked by an expert eye specialist & accordingly glasses can be used to improve clarity of vision. Other option for glasses is Contact Lenses. Glasses can be removed completely by a LASER procedure called LASIK after the age of 18 years once the power of eye is stabilized. LASIK is a very safe procedure with high grade accuracy, least possible side effects & excellent results. As refractive error can arise at any age, one eye check up by an eye specialist is must for each & every child at the age of 5 years irrespective whether he is having eye problems or not.

Glasses can be removed by LASER procedure called LASIK after the age of 18

Cataract is another most common eye problem which is nothing but clouding of natural human lens. It’s not a disease but normal aging process. Hence it’s seen in old age commonly though it can occur at any age because of various reasons & can be there by birth also. Cataract affects quality of vision to a great extent. The only treatment for this is surgery. Cataract can’t be cured by glasses or medicines. Due to advances in technology, the entire surgery can be done through a very small 2.8 mm incision & high quality artificial lens is implanted in the eye. Its day care procedure, no hospitalization is required & patient can go home immediately after surgery.

Cataract has to be removed by advanced cataract surgery (Phacoemulsification) & replaced by modern intra-ocular lens

Squint or crossed eye is again a very common eye problem. It also can occur at any age & can be treated by glasses, exercises or surgery. Any person or child with squint has to be examined by expert squint specialist as early as possible irrespective of the age of the affected because if not treated in time, it can have severe impact on vision of the affected. Children with squint need special attention by squint specialist.

Squint corrected by surgery

Glaucoma, which is also called as silent thief of eyesight, occurs due to damage of the Optic Nerve. Raised pressure inside the eye is one of the main risk factors for this. This is also seen in old age & if not diagnosed & treated in time can cause gradual & permanent loss of vision. Treatment modalities include eye drops, LASER & surgery.

Though very small part of human body, eye is very important & delicate organ. Most of the diseases affecting eyes can have impact on the vision & hence any symptom of eye problem should be taken seriously & immediately eye check up by an expert eye specialist should be done to avoid vision threatening problems in future.

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